take the liberty

Definition

To act on one's own authority, without asking for permission.

Example Sentences

• "I took the liberty of adding your name to the list."
• "—What about Dignam? says Bob Doran. Who's talking about ...? / —Dead! says Alf. He's no more dead than you are. / —Maybe so, says Joe. They took the liberty of burying him this morning anyhow."